The new residence hall across from the Schuldes Sports Center will be named the Fr. Eugene E. Gries, O.Praem., Residence Hall after a lifelong friend and supporter of St. Norbert. The long affiliation
Fr. Gries ’62 has enjoyed with the college has included terms as dean of students, trustee and pastor of Old St. Joe’s.

“This honor came out of the blue and I am deeply humbled,” says Gries, whose 10-year service on the board of trustees ended last year. Gries now resides with the Santa Maria de la Vid Norbertine Community in New Mexico. He will return to campus for the dedication of the building on May 18.

The first students will move into Fr. Gries Hall in June. The building will accommodate 144 students. It offers single rooms in apartment-style units for four. The hall has its own workout facilities and a reflection lounge.

This new housing option is designed to meet the needs of seniors as they prepare to transition from campus housing into post-graduation life. The building will be wheelchair accessible and offer living space for residential education and housing staff on its third floor.